noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

misconception

mihs-kuhn-SEHP-shuhn

Misconception (noun) means an idea or belief that is factually wrong, even though it is widely held. Example: “It's a common misconception that goldfish only have a three-second memory.”

noun

An idea or belief that is factually wrong, even though it is widely held.

"It's a common misconception that goldfish only have a three-second memory."

"The teacher spent the lesson correcting misconceptions about the moon landing."

How to use misconception

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA popular belief that just isn't true.

Common pairings

a common misconception popular misconception correct a misconception

Word forms

misconceptions plural

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It's a common _____ that goldfish only have a three-second memory.

Etymology

From mis- + conception, "a wrongly formed idea."

Rhymes for misconception

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension oxidation

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Frequently asked questions

What does “misconception” mean?

The word “misconception” means an idea or belief that is factually wrong, even though it is widely held. In plain terms, a popular belief that just isn't true.

How do you pronounce “misconception”?

“Misconception” is pronounced mihs-kuhn-SEHP-shuhn (/ˌmɪs.kənˈsɛp.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “misconception” in a sentence?

Here is “misconception” used in a sentence: “It's a common misconception that goldfish only have a three-second memory.”

What part of speech is “misconception”?

“Misconception” is a noun.

Is “misconception” a common word?

“Misconception” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.